Sun, sea and Sappho

Guardian.co.uk – Julie Bindel – The Guardian

Should only those born on the Greek island of Lesbos be allowed to call themselves lesbian? Yes, say some islanders embarrassed by the word’s more common usage. Don’t be ridiculous, say the lesbian tourists – and the locals who welcome them. Julie Bindel flew out to join the fray

Arriving at the tiny airport of Mytilene on the Greek island of Lesbos, I walk past a sign advertising “Lesbian wine”. I’m on my way to Eressos, a small Greek village where, I am told, lesbian tourists are 10 a penny. This island in the Aegean Sea is to some lesbians what Torremolinos is to 18-30 holidaymakers – the destination of choice for those who want to sunbathe and party with kindred spirits, and be open about their sexuality.